What is an "Affordable Home” Today?
We have all seen it… the cost of homes going up and up and up. I have felt it more by the extraordinary taxes I pay on our home. But for many, particularly younger people, the increasing cost relates to the American Dream.
But is there another way to look at this issue?
Many people view home ownership in perfect alignment with the American Dream. And there is good reason for that belief system. There is great value in owning a home… when you own a home, the following are outcomes:
Stronger Economic Stability and Growth
Great Educational Opportunities for Family (in particular kids)
Great Health, physician and mental
More Social Cohesion
Reduction in Community Poverty and Inequity
Long-term Stability and Independence
But what defines a “home?”
I have been fascinated with alternatives to what is considered a structural house. The traditional model of building is “stick and board,” so to speak. A concreate foundation, wood studs/structure, drywall, etc. The way we build homes has not changed much in the past 100 years. Material has, structure/planning/design has not.
But what if I told you there were cheaper, quicker options for building? Because there are, and they are available:
Tiny Houses: For those wanting their first home, tiny houses allow for up to 500 square feet of space and include most of a standard home’s conveniences, but in smaller/more compact options. Some studies indicate that a tiny house is up to 10 times CHEAPER than a standard home (smaller as well, obviously).
Prefab homes: For those looking for a little larger, a prefab homes offer amazing options. Constructed offsite in mass numbers, then reassembled onsite, these homes are not “mobile homes.” They are real structures, in the “stick and board” form. They provide more options, larger sizes, and a much cheaper cost. Prefab homes can run anywhere from 20%-50% less. The downsides... maybe there are more with a similar look.
3D Printed House – This one is crazy, but cool. Think of a “crane like system” that pours concrete as a 3D printer. Yes, you can “print” the house. Any design. Any style. Any size. Walls where you want them. Waterproof. Wind proof. Unbelievable insulation. And at a 45% discount. The downside- a different look.
Back to the question—what defines a “home?”
Maybe the issue isn’t “options.” It is “choice” and “perception.” If everyone wants a five bedroom, three bath stick and board house, then we will continue to have a housing issue. If we remain more about the “structures,” the problem will not subside.
But I have always thought a “home” is where I find my family, love, fun, smiles, laughter, and joy. And you can have that in 400 ft as a young couple, in more square feet with a house that is made offsite for young family, or in concrete based home for anyone. I vote for more thought around what happens IN the structure rather than what the structure looks like, how big it is, or how it is built.
